Mitchell and Kirk were friends until an encounter with a galactic barrier transformed him into a cruel, ruthless and supremely powerful villain.

The actor was cast in JJ Abrams's sequel earlier this year, but there has so far been no confirmation of what part he is playing beyond the fact that his character is a villain.

Watch Simon Pegg discussing Star Trek 2 with Digital Spy below:

Karl Urban, who plays Bones in Abrams's rebooted franchise, appeared to unintentionally confirm the role, saying of Cumberbatch: "He's awesome, he's a great addition, and I think his Gary Mitchell is going to be exemplary."